Rich, meaningful design unveiled for Akaroa reserve
Thursday, 28 November 2024
A double spiral pathway, a second pou and places for rest and reflection are promised for Takapūneke Reserve near Akaroa.
The spiral pathways, known as takarangi, will also serve as a discovery trail, and aspects of the design, created jointly by the Christchurch City Council and Ōnuku Rūnanga, are based on the harakeke (flax) abundant in the area.
“The narrative of harakeke is all through the design, from the timber deck with its weaved patterns, to the furniture, with several different seats inspired by the seed pod and flower stem of the harakeke,” said the council.
“The collaboration between Ōnuku and the council has been invaluable in terms of creating a development plan so rich in meaning,” said Ōnuku Rūnanga chairperson Rik Tainui.
“Together, we’ve been able to create an organic design that brings the best out of the natural landscape and the history of this tapu site. It’s a real synthesis of technical expertise and a deep connection with the whenua,” he said.
“The designs show that it’s going to be a truly special destination for people from all over Aotearoa, not just locally.”
Takapūneke sits between Akaroa and Ōnuku in Akaroa Harbour and was an important centre for trade between Ngāi Tahu and European settlers.
It was the scene of a massacre in 1830 and became tapu, although that was not respected by Europeans.
The events prompted the British intervention in New Zealand that ultimately led to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
This story was told recently by Mark Walton in The Weekend Press.
“Takapūneke is rich in natural beauty as well as history, which makes it a perfect place for reflection,“ said council‘s head of parks Rupert Bool.
Phase two will start in January and should be finished by Matariki 2025, but the $21 million development is a 10-year project.
Future phases will include a new car park, entrance, asphalt pathway, toilet, signs and interpretation and further restoration of the whenua (land).
About 22,000 natives will be planted and there will be community planting days over winter 2025.